Endocrinology Assignment

Instructions

Please read each section/question carefully. Answer questions in complete sentences, and if/when you need to cite outside materials, please use footnotes. All work is to be typed, and may be submitted either by email or in class. This assignment is due no later than midnight Thursday January 13th. NO LATE PAPERS ACCEPTED.
 
 

Short Answer:

What is a prostaglandin?

Given that hormones contact virtually all cells in the body, why are only certain cells affected by a particular hormone?

What roles might melatonin play in the body?
 
 

Case Study 1

Because of a rapidly spreading tumor, Jake’s entire thyroid gland and all associated tissue were surgically removed. He received thyroxine-replacement therapy, but within two days, he experienced muscle spasms and difficulty with breathing.

Q1: How do you explain these symptoms?

Q2: What could be done for treatment?

Case Study 2

Roy is a 34-year-old businessman. He has recently read that men who were 6 foot and taller were promoted more frequently and received larger salaries than their shorter counterparts. Roy being 5’10" decides he would like to grow another few inches to help boost his professional aspirations. He goes to see his doctor, and asks about growth hormone injections.

Q1: Will these injections help Roy achieve an increased height?

Q2: How would the doctor explain this to Roy?